NCCIA can freeze properties under new rules

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Interior has issued a formal notification of new rules for the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), granting it expanded powers to tackle a growing range of cyber offences nationwide.

The announcement was confirmed by NCCIA’s Director General, Waqaruddin Syed, who stated that the rules have been sent to the agency for immediate implementation. Under the new framework, the NCCIA will have the power to freeze properties within Pakistan—a significant step in tackling financial crimes. All such actions will require the direct approval of the director general. The rules also enable the agency to collaborate with international bodies for cross-border investigations, strengthening its capacity to pursue sophisticated cybercrime networks.

The NCCIA’s mandate includes conducting investigations under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code. The agency will coordinate with sensitive institutions and provincial authorities to ensure a cohesive response to cyber threats nationwide. To address specific and growing threats, the NCCIA will establish specialised units dedicated to combating online financial fraud and online child abuse.

Transparency and accountability remain key elements of the new regulations. All NCCIA personnel must wear uniforms, and a dedicated self-accountability unit will be established within the agency to supervise internal conduct and uphold ethical standards. According to the regulations, investigations can be launched based on source reports, but all such inquiries require prior approval from the Director General, ensuring a centralised and controlled process.

The notification of these rules comes shortly after the NCCIA dismantled a significant cybercrime network operating out of Multan. The agency arrested the main suspect, identified as Arsalan from the Dunyapur area, who was allegedly part of a larger group that defrauded both Pakistani and foreign citizens.

The group used elaborate scams on WhatsApp and Facebook, luring victims with fake game shows, marriage proposals, and foreign aid schemes. Officials revealed that the gang would show victims fake videos of foreign currency to establish trust, then demand “tax” payments in exchange for promised financial backing—extracting millions of rupees. The group also used fake profiles on matrimonial platforms to gain the trust of victims before executing their fraudulent schemes.